Several campgrounds near Hubbardsville provide a range of camping options within the rolling hills of central New York. Located in Madison County at approximately 1,250 feet elevation, this region experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cool nights around 55-60°F. Fall camping is particularly popular due to moderate temperatures and colorful foliage from mid-September through October.
What to do
Kayaking at Green Lakes State Park: The park features two meromictic lakes with unusual blue-green water due to their depth and mineral content. Rentals available for $7/hour for rowboats. "You cannot bring your own kayaks you have to rent. Fun hiking area the water is gorgeous. Great playgrounds. Bathrooms and showers were very clean," notes Sara H.
Hike glacial formations: Green Lakes State Park offers a 3.1-mile loop trail around its unique glacial lakes. "The hiking includes an easy 3.1 mile loop with much shade around two glacier formed turquoise lakes (you need to see them in person to appreciate)," according to Sheri S.
Diamond mining excursions: Search for Herkimer diamonds (double-terminated quartz crystals) at Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA, which offers both camping and mining access. "The mines are so much fun. Some of the sites are crowded but each site has plenty of space. The whole park is well maintained," writes Kelly F.
Tubing the West Canada Creek: This activity provides a refreshing way to cool off during summer months. "The creek is AMAZING. Both kid and adult friendly and it's free, just bring a tube or purchase for cheap at the camp store. Lazy river flow with some faster spots," reports Julia P.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Bowman Lake State Park offers secluded camping areas. "This campsite was beautiful. It was very secluded and in the woods, right next to the lake as well. I enjoyed how spread out this campground is compared to most and the location is beautiful," says Katarina M.
Clean facilities: Most state parks in the region maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. "The bathhouses have been remodeled and most are private with a toilet, shower and sink which makes this a wonderful family campground," reports a visitor to Chenango Valley State Park.
Yurt camping options: Loomis Lair offers yurt camping near Hubbardsville, providing a comfortable glamping alternative. Grandpa's Back 40 Glamping also features limited yurt accommodations with basic amenities. "It's a very nice space," notes a recent visitor.
Proximity to attractions: The region's central location provides easy access to multiple destinations. "With Cooperstown 15-20 minutes away no lack of things to do for adults and kids. Great restaurants also. No reason to ever get bored," writes Patti M. about her stay at Glimmerglass State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds operate from mid-May through early October. Delta Lake State Park's season runs "May 12 to October 9" according to park information, with peak season in July and August.
Water access considerations: Not all campgrounds provide direct water access from campsites. "Only downside is there is not a hiking/walking path down to the lake from the campground. Very nice bathrooms w shower and wash station," reports Heather E. about Glimmerglass State Park.
Limited yurt availability: Yurt camping near Hubbardsville requires advance booking due to limited inventory. Grandpa's Back 40 Glamping has only two sites available.
Shower facilities vary: Quality of shower facilities differs across campgrounds. "As clean as the bathrooms are, the showers still suck. I'll never understand why parks use the misting shower heads... It's best to use the ADA bathrooms because those shower heads are normal and have wands," advises Chelsea B.
Tips for camping with families
Consider site location: Request sites closer to facilities when camping with young children. "Plenty of sites with electric available at every site. There are some sites with full hook-up available and also specific areas that allow pets. Swimming is available at the large beach," notes Cindy H.
Plan for weather changes: Summer storms can develop quickly in the region. "I did have to cut it short when we got rained out," explains Mary P. about her trip to Chenango Valley with her grandson.
Choose parks with multiple activities: Delta Lake State Park offers diverse family options. "Bring your bikes, the swimming is great and the entire swimming/boating area just underwent a major renovation. You can rent kayaks and paddle boards and the park is well maintained and monitored by park police, very safe!" recommends Courtney Z.
Pack for variable temperatures: Even summer nights can drop into the 50s. "The mature trees make for beautiful scenery in the fall," notes one Cooperstown KOA visitor, but those same trees provide significant shade that keeps temperatures cooler.
Tips from RVers
Check site specifications: Some campgrounds have limited large rig access. "Sites are a good size with water and electric on each site. There is a dumping station to use, some sewer sites," explains Heather R. about Treasure Isle RV Park.
Consider satellite reception: Tree coverage affects signal quality. "The park does have a fair amount of trees that would interfere with roof-mounted satellite dishes so you would have to pick your site carefully. But, there are some 30 amp and no hook-up sites that are clear," advises Nancy W.
Reserve early for waterfront sites: Premium locations book quickly. "We had a waterfront hookup! So pretty especially in the morning with the sunrise. The road to get in was for the most part well taken care of. It was pretty quiet especially after quiet hours everyone was very respectful," shares Tris W. about their Delta Lake State Park experience.
